The Federal Government (FG), through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Sokoto State Government’s Ministry of Innovation and Digital Economy (MIDE), has launched a three-day Digital Skills Mentorship Program for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (DSMP–MSME) at Lint-Tech Limited Training Hub, Sokoto.
Declaring the programme open, the Honourable Commissioner for MIDE, Hon. Bashar Umar Kwabo, described it as a timely initiative to equip business owners with digital skills needed to remain competitive in today’s technology-driven economy. He commended NITDA for the partnership, noting that it reflects a shared commitment to building an inclusive and innovative digital economy.
Hon. Kwabo emphasized that the training provides practical knowledge to improve productivity, expand market access, and strengthen businesses.
He also highlighted the Sokoto State Government’s commitment, under the leadership of His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, to digital inclusion, innovation, and human capital development, citing the establishment of MIDE and the Sokoto Information and Communications Technology Development Agency (SICTDA) as proof of this commitment.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Nasir Daniya, mni, disclosed that over 4,500 applicants applied for the programme, from which 30 participants were selected based on merit, comprising 60% men, 40% women, and 10% persons with disabilities.
Dr. Ahmed Yusuf Tambuwal, Assistant Director at NITDA, explained that the programme equips MSMEs with digital tools for immediate business application, adding that outstanding participants would be recognized with laptop prizes to encourage excellence.
Mr. Murtala Nuhu, Director of ICT, MIDE, urged participants to maximize the opportunity, noting that the digital economy represents the future of business growth.
Lectures were delivered by Dr. Shadi Sabeh, the Vice Chancellor of iConic Open University, whom is also the Founder of BFI Group, and Manir Malami Umar MNCS, the Chairman of the Nigeria Computer Society (Sokoto State Chapter).
The opening ceremony was attended by Directors and Heads of Units of both the Ministry and SICTDA, as well as NITDA representatives and other invited guests.
Muhammad Abubakar
20-01-2026
